Brigadier General Mike Cadle marked the end of a remarkable 40-year military career this weekend, retiring from the West Virginia National Guard on Sunday—just one day after celebrating his 60th birthday. His journey from a humble mail clerk to a senior-ranking officer stands as a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the power of opportunity within military service.
The retirement ceremony took place at the West Virginia National Guard headquarters in Charleston, where Cadle was honored for his decades of service to both the Mountain State and the nation. Reflecting on his career, Cadle shared how unexpected his rise through the ranks had been.
“I never dreamed I’d be an officer, and certainly never dreamed I’d become a Brigadier General,” he said. “But once you find something good, you tend to stay with it. I think most people are like that.”
A graduate of South Charleston High School, Cadle found his path to the military in the early 1980s during a time when he and his parents were struggling to pay for his college education at Marshall University. A friend who was already serving in the Guard introduced him to the idea of enlisting, highlighting the educational and financial benefits.
“He said, ‘Hey, this is a great deal. It’ll help you go to school and support your family,’” Cadle recalled. “So I joined at 20 years old.”
That decision changed the course of his life. The Guard not only funded his undergraduate studies but also helped him earn a graduate degree. Over the span of four decades, Cadle served in numerous roles, each shaping his leadership and perspective. One position he held with particular pride was that of public affairs officer in the early 2000s.
“I got to help tell the Guard’s story and got to highlight the incredible accomplishments of our people,” Cadle said.
In that role, he was instrumental in bringing public attention to the Guard’s critical contributions during national emergencies. He accompanied West Virginia journalists to New Orleans in 2005, showcasing the Guard’s tireless efforts following Hurricane Katrina. The West Virginia National Guard stayed longer than any other, except for Louisiana’s own Guard, a reflection of their deep commitment to the mission.
Cadle also escorted media personnel to Afghanistan, allowing them to document the achievements of the 130th Airlift Wing. In recent years, his efforts extended to international partnerships, working with nations in Africa to help develop their military capabilities.
As he stepped away from the uniform, Cadle expressed immense gratitude for the experiences and opportunities the Guard provided.
“It’s all encompassing. You can do just about anything you want in the Guard, and there’s a lot of benefit to that,” he said. “I was fortunate to get in when I did and have the opportunities that I have.”
Throughout his career, Cadle traveled to nearly 30 countries and visited five continents. These global experiences shaped his views on America’s role in the world and the importance of both learning from and sharing with international allies.
“I’ve seen the world, and it helps to see the world,” he said. “It helps form your perspective on what we can do better, what we can learn from others, and what we can teach.”
Mike Cadle’s legacy will remain a guiding example for future generations of National Guard members, showing that with commitment and service, extraordinary achievements are possible.
